~ As the winter season brings frigid temperatures, most people prefer to stay bundled up indoors. However, for the Springfield Fire Department Water Rescue Team, this is the time to gear up and head out for their annual ice rescue practice.

According to statistics, 250 Americans lose their lives every year after falling into icy bodies of water. This makes it crucial for rescuers to be well-prepared and have quick response times. In order to ensure their readiness, team members braved the cold this week and practiced various maneuvers such as safely breaking through the ice and executing self-rescue techniques.

Springfield Fire Chief David Pennington emphasizes the importance of staying off the ice during this time of year. He explains that while the surface may appear solid enough to support one's weight, it is actually quite dangerous and can result in a person falling through into freezing water. This can quickly become a life-threatening situation.

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In case of witnessing someone playing on or falling through the ice, the Fire Department urges individuals to take immediate action by calling 9-1-1. This will ensure that the Water Rescue Team is promptly notified and able to respond in a timely manner. If it is safe to do so, maintaining voice and visual contact with the victim can provide them with reassurance while also helping responders locate them more easily.

However, it is important for individuals not to attempt rescue themselves. Battalion Chief of EMS and Special Operations Christopher Roush explains that their team uses specialized equipment specifically designed for working in these extreme conditions. Without this equipment, anyone entering the water would be at great risk.

Chief Pennington reiterates this message by urging people to prioritize their safety and avoid going onto frozen bodies of water altogether. With proper precautions and awareness, tragedies can be prevented during these winter months.

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